Maharashtra withdraws FIRs against protesters, but police continue probe, causing confusion

The Maharashtra government has announced the withdrawal of First Information Reports (FIRs) registered against students and youth involved in recent protests. The decision, taken after a delegation of the All India Students’ Federation (AISF) met senior police officials, has been welcomed by student organisations. However, the Mumbai Police have clarified that investigative procedures will continue until a formal order to halt the process is received, creating confusion among the student community.

On July 28, a day after the government directed the Home Department to withdraw cases, several protesters received FIR notices via WhatsApp, according to the Harsha Disha student organisation. The notices, sent starting from 9:30 a.m., led to fresh allegations that the police and the government were using intimidation tactics. In a statement, Harsha Disha said that the government’s promises had proven to be false hopes and called for continued protests until all FIRs are withdrawn and police officers who incited violence are held accountable.

The government’s decision to withdraw cases came after a joint delegation of the AISF met the Director General of Police and the Commissioner of Police. The delegation demanded an end to police harassment and the withdrawal of all FIRs lodged against peaceful demonstrators. While the government agreed to the demand, senior police officials have clarified that a probe cannot be stopped midway.

According to legal procedures, the withdrawal of FIRs related to political or social movements begins only after a charge sheet is filed. “Until the charge sheet is submitted, recording statements of accused and witnesses, conducting panchnamas, and other legal formalities are necessary. The cases then go to a scrutiny committee which recommends withdrawal,” an official explained.

AISF Mumbai President Aamir Kazi stated that despite the announcement, students and youth are still receiving calls and notices, creating fear and confusion. He added that the Director General of Police has suggested that AISF submit a representation to the Mumbai Police Commissioner, urging them not to send new notices to protesters and to stop calling them to police stations.

The current government resolution on withdrawal of cases is valid until July 31. Officials noted that many investigations are ongoing and charge sheets may not be filed before that date, making an extension likely. “The sooner charge sheets are filed, the sooner the process of withdrawal under the government resolution can begin,” an officer added.

The AISF has welcomed the government’s decision but maintained that the struggle continues until every notice and legal proceeding against peaceful protesters is withdrawn. The federation has reiterated its demand for an immediate halt to police visits to the homes of protesters and an end to all forms of harassment.